Jefferson Health is helping residents in the Lehigh Valley region to prepare for flu season by offering free influenza vaccinations in its annual community campaign.

Building on a tradition spanning nearly three decades, the initiative provides convenient opportunities for thousands of families to protect themselves against seasonal influenza.

Vaccine clinics

Jefferson Health will administer free influenza vaccinations for adults and children age 6 months and older during two drive-through flu shot clinics:

• Saturday, Nov. 7, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Dorney Park and Wildwater Kingdom, 3830 Dorney Park Road, South Whitehall Township, 18104, and

• Sunday, Nov. 8, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Lehigh Valley Hospital-Hecktown Oaks, 3780 Hecktown Road, Lower Nazareth Township, 18045.

The program, now in its 28th year, has administered more than 240,000 free flu shots.

“The flu can be more serious than many people realize, particularly for young children, older adults, and those with underlying health conditions,” said Alex Benjamin, MD, Chief of Infection Control and Hospital Epidemiology, Jefferson Health–Lehigh Valley Region.

“A flu shot is one of the best ways to protect yourself and your loved ones during flu season. By bringing these clinics into the community, we’re making it easier for people to get vaccinated and stay healthy,” Dr. Benjamin said.

“One of the things I love most about these clinics is the opportunity to connect with people outside of a hospital or doctor’s office,” said Brenda Croll-Stachelek, RN, Director for Infection Control and Prevention, Jefferson Health–Lehigh Valley Region.

“Our team looks forward to this event every year because it’s a chance to meet people where they are, help them stay healthy, and make a positive impact in the community before flu season begins,” Croll-Stachelek said.

Community donations

In addition to providing free vaccinations, Jefferson Health will again collect donations of unexpired, nonperishable food items at the drive-through clinics. Items including diapers, hygiene products, coffee pods, and disinfectant wipes are also accepted. Donations are optional and not required to receive a flu shot.

Vaccine information

Anyone planning to receive a flu shot at either drive-through location should review the vaccine information statement and complete a consent form in advance at:

https://www.lvhn.org/treatments/influenza-flu-shots

Bring a completed and signed consent form for each person receiving a flu shot. Consent forms will be available on-site for those who do not have access to a printer.

A standard-dose influenza vaccine will be administered to individuals ages 6 months through 64 years.

Those age 65 and older will be offered a high-dose vaccine designed to provide enhanced protection.

Individuals planning to receive a flu shot should wear loose-fitting clothing so the vaccine can be administered in the upper arm, or in the leg for children younger than 2 years of age.

Clinic information, vaccination routes, and event updates:

https://www.lvhn.org/treatments/influenza-flu-shots.